French Rugby Federation unhappy with merger plan

PARIS, March 14, (AP): The planned merger between French rugby clubs Racing 92 and Stade Francais has caused division within the sport’s authorities, with the French league welcoming it and the French Rugby Federation strongly rebuking it.

The FFR said it was “shocked” to learn of the proposed merger and planned to meet with players from Stade Francais later Tuesday to discuss it.

“(The FFR) is also very surprised to hear of the so-called creation of a new club without having been consulted first,” the federation said in a statement. “Without having any information to hand, other than that released by the press, it cannot give a ruling on the said project.”

FFR president Bernard Laporte said he will summon French league president Paul Goze in the coming days in order to receive “a full explanation.”

In a statement called “Stronger Together,” the two Paris-based clubs announced Monday they are planning to combine forces from next season. The plans quickly received the backing of Goze.

“It’s a historic announcement because it concerns two clubs that have left their mark on French rugby history and won the two first Brennus shields (French titles),” Goze said. “I salute the work done over many years by (club) presidents Thomas Savare (Stade Francais) and Jacky Lorenzetti (Racing). Having heavily invested in their clubs, their wish today is to combine forces in order to take the next step.”